Lepidium draba is a perennial forb in the mustard family that can grow up to 2 ft. (0.6 m) tall.
Foliage
The leaves are soft, gray-green, 1.5-3 in. (3.7-7.6 cm) long with fine hairs and heart-shaped bases. The lower leaves tend to have more hairs than the upper leaves. The upper leaves clasp to the stem of the plant.
Flowers
Flowering occurs in early spring to early summer, when white, four-petaled flowers develop in clusters at the apex of the stem.
Fruit
The fruit are heart-shaped seed pods.
Ecological Threat
Lepidium draba invades rangelands, pastures, streambanks, and open forests primarily in the western United States, although it does occur in the East. It can form large infestations that can displace native species and reduce grazing quality. This plant is native to Central Europe and Western Asia and was first introduced into the United States in the early 20th century.